POTUS talked to Secretary Bryson on phone before he left for Maryland this morning. It was a short conversation and the president encouraged Bryson to “focus his thoughts on his own health on his own family,” [Obama spokesman Josh] Earnest said. He also indicated his confidence in Dr. Blank, as someone who could lead the Commerce Dept in his absence. It was the first time the two men had spoken since the weekend incidents.There’s no timetable for Bryson’s return. Earnest said he couldn’t speak to why Bryson took a medical leave versus stepping down altogether.